Celebrating Diwali at Pretend City

Pretend City Children's Museum in Irvine is marking Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, with a cheerful day of music, movement, and crafts, all included with museum admission. The celebration offers young children a playful, hands-on introduction to one of the world's most beloved holidays, which celebrates light, renewal, and togetherness. It is a lovely way for Orange County families to share Diwali traditions or discover them for the first time.

The festivities feature two Diwali celebration sessions with Neeta Merchant at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., where kids can dance along to upbeat Indian music. From noon to 2 p.m., children can drop in to make and decorate their own diya, a traditional oil lamp, to take home as a bright keepsake. Between activities, little ones can keep playing throughout the museum's kid-sized city, from the market to the farm and the theater.

Space is limited, so the museum recommends booking tickets in advance. Pretend City is built for young children, making this celebration an ideal outing for toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary kids. Bring your camera, because your family will want to remember those happy dance moves and glittering diyas.

📅 Dates & Times

Saturday, November 7, 2026

11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.: Diwali Celebration with Neeta Merchant

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.: Diya Decorating

Museum hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

📍 Venue

Pretend City Children's Museum

29 Hubble

Irvine, CA 92618

👨🏻‍👩🏻‍👦🏻‍👦🏻 Age Requirement

All ages are welcome.

Pretend City is designed for young children and is best suited for toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary kids. All children must be accompanied by someone 16 or older.

🎟️ Tickets/Price

Included with museum admission.

Children and adults: $22

Seniors and military families: $20

Infants under 1: Free

Members: Free

Museums for All (EBT/WIC): $5 per person, up to four visitors

Space is limited, and advance tickets are recommended.

GET TICKETS FOR PRETEND CITY CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

🍔 Food

Please check the website for more information.

🚙 Parking

Free parking is available in the museum lot and behind the building, with additional street parking on Bunsen and Hubble.

🌐 Website Link

Pretend City Children's Museum Celebrating Diwali

🧭 Directions

Click on the “Google” map for directions.

📢 Disclaimer

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